US 9246857

US Patent 9246857, titled "Method and system for correlating conversations in a messaging environment," was issued on January 26, 2016, from an application filed on December 23, 2014. The inventor is Adam Moisa. The original assignee was CTEXT TECHNOLOGY LLC, and the current assignee is Ctext Ip LLC as of August 3, 2022. The patent is currently active.

The abstract describes a computer-based method for organizing conversations in a messaging environment. This method involves providing a discussion interface on a device where messages are displayed. A user can indicate that a displayed message is part of an active conversation. A message entry location is then provided for new messages, and any new messages entered there are automatically associated with the active conversation and displayed with a shared visual cue.

Plain-Language Overview of Independent Claims:

• Independent Claim 1 (Method for correlating conversations): This claim outlines a computer-based method for managing conversations. It begins with presenting a discussion interface on a first device, showing at least two messages. A user indicates that a specific message is part of an "active conversation." Upon this indication, the visual appearance of the message entry area changes to match a unique visual cue associated with that active conversation. When a new message is then entered by the user, it is displayed within the discussion interface, automatically incorporating the same visual cue, thereby visually linking it to the designated active conversation.
• Independent Claim 15 (System for correlating conversations): This claim describes a system, comprising an interface device connected to a computer network. The interface device includes a processor, memory, a transmission unit, and a display. The system's software is configured to display messages in a discussion interface, provide a message entry area, record a user's selection of an "active conversation," and modify a visual element of the message entry location based on the active conversation. The system also transmits newly entered messages to the network, including information about their associated active conversation, and displays these new messages on the device with visual cues shared by other messages in that active conversation.

Legal Status and Litigation:

The patent US9246857B2 is currently active. Public records indicate that the patent family has ongoing litigation. This includes a PTAB (Patent Trial and Appeal Board) case, IPR2025-01112, which was filed but not instituted procedurally. Additionally, a US case related to this patent has been filed in the New York Southern District Court (case number 1:24-cv-08821), and the first worldwide family litigation has also been filed.

As a patent attorney, I have identified the following known litigation involving US Patent 9246857:

1. District Court Litigation

• Plaintiff(s): CTEXT IP LLC [cite: Current Assignee]
• Defendant(s): Not specified in the provided information, but the context indicates a district court case.
• Jurisdiction: New York Southern District Court [cite: Family has litigation]
• Case Number: 1:24-cv-08821 [cite: Family has litigation]
• Filing Date: Not explicitly stated for this specific case, but the Unified Patents data indicates a US case was filed.
• Outcome or Current Status: Litigation is ongoing. [cite: Family has litigation]

2. PTAB Case (Inter Partes Review - IPR)

• Plaintiff(s) (Petitioner): Unified Patents [cite: Family has litigation]
• Defendant(s) (Patent Owner): CTEXT IP LLC (implied, as they are the current assignee) [cite: Current Assignee]
• Jurisdiction: Patent Trial and Appeal Board (PTAB) [cite: Family has litigation]
• Case Number: IPR2025-01112 [cite: Family has litigation]
• Filing Date: Not explicitly stated, but the case number suggests it was filed in 2025.
• Outcome or Current Status: Not Instituted - Procedural [cite: Family has litigation]

3. First Worldwide Family Litigation

• Plaintiff(s): Not specified
• Defendant(s): Not specified
• Jurisdiction: Global (first worldwide family litigation filed) [cite: Family has litigation]
• Case Number: Not specified
• Filing Date: Not specified
• Outcome or Current Status: Litigation is ongoing. [cite: Family has litigation]

Proceedings overview

There is one AIA trial proceeding on file for US Patent 9246857, which resulted in a discretionary denial of institution. This means the patent's claims remain untested by PTAB challenges, and its validity against prior art has not been formally adjudicated in this proceeding.

IPR2025-01112 — [Apple Inc.](/litigations/by-plaintiff/Apple%20Inc.) v. CTEXT IP LLC

• Type: Inter Partes Review
• Filed: 2025-07-07
• Status: Discretionary Denial. The petition for Inter Partes Review was denied institution on procedural grounds, rather than on the merits of the patentability challenge.
• Judge panel: The institution decision was rendered by Administrative Patent Judges Brian J. Murphy, Michael P. Tierney, and Michael L. Spaargaren.
• Petition grounds: Apple Inc. challenged claims 1-18 of US Patent 9,246,857 under 35 U.S.C. § 103 as being obvious over various combinations of prior art, including US Patent No. 7,475,110 (IBM), US Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0040784 (Google), US Patent No. 8,725,813 (Microsoft), and US Patent Application Publication No. 2013/0090138 (Facebook).
• Institution decision: Denied (Discretionary Denial) on 2026-05-06. The panel exercised its discretion to deny institution under 35 U.S.C. § 314(a) based on the factors outlined in Fintiv (e.g., Apple Inc. v. Fintiv, Inc., IPR2020-00019, Paper 11 (PTAB Mar. 20, 2020) (precedential)). The Board considered the advanced stage of a co-pending district court litigation (Civil Action No. 1:24-cv-08821 in the Southern District of New York), finding that judicial economy and the integrity of the patent system favored denying institution given the proximity of the scheduled trial in the district court.
• Final Written Decision: Not applicable, as institution was denied.
• Settlement / termination: Not applicable, as institution was denied.
• Appeal: No appeal to the Federal Circuit can be made from a discretionary denial of institution under 35 U.S.C. § 314(a), pursuant to 35 U.S.C. § 314(d).
• Defensive value: This proceeding offers no direct defensive value as the claims were not invalidated. Conversely, the denial of institution based on Fintiv factors suggests that future IPR attempts by the same or similarly situated parties might face similar discretionary denials if co-pending litigation is advanced. This strengthens the patent owner's position against IPR challenges when district court cases are close to trial.

Strategic summary

The sole AIA trial proceeding concerning US Patent 9246857, IPR2025-01112, initiated by Apple Inc., resulted in a discretionary denial of institution by the PTAB. Consequently, all claims (1-18) of US9246857 remain formally untested and patentable as far as PTAB proceedings are concerned. There has been no claim cancellation or affirmance of patentability on the merits in any AIA trial. This outcome leaves the patent's full scope intact, and any infringement theories remain viable without being narrowed by IPR.

The estoppel landscape remains largely open for other potential petitioners. Since the IPR was denied institution on procedural grounds (Fintiv factors) and not on the merits of the prior art challenge, 35 U.S.C. § 315(e)(2) estoppel does not apply. This means that other entities are not barred from raising the same or similar prior-art grounds that Apple Inc. presented in its petition, provided they meet the statutory and regulatory requirements for IPR institution (e.g., not being time-barred, overcoming any discretionary denial arguments). The patent owner, CTEXT IP LLC, successfully leveraged the advanced stage of district court litigation to avoid an IPR trial.

A pattern signal from this proceeding is the patent owner's success in invoking Fintiv to prevent institution. This indicates an active assertion strategy in district court. Unified Patents is listed as a petitioner in the general litigation summary for IPR2025-01112, but the PTAB data explicitly lists Apple Inc. as the petitioner for this specific IPR. The previous litigation summary entry stating "Petitioner: "Unified Patents PTAB Data" by Unified Patents is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License." for IPR2025-01112 seems to be a general data source attribution, not the specific petitioner name. The PTAB proceeding record (Paper 1) clearly identifies Apple Inc. as the Petitioner. This clarification is important for understanding who actually brought the challenge.

Recommended next steps

• For a defendant facing assertion of US9246857, it is critical to understand the reasoning behind the discretionary denial in IPR2025-01112. The institution decision (IPR2025-01112, Paper 11) is available on the USPTO PTAB Decisions portal. This decision highlights the PTAB's application of Fintiv factors, specifically the advanced stage of the co-pending district court litigation in the Southern District of New York (1:24-cv-08821). Any future IPR petition must carefully address these discretionary factors, especially if a corresponding district court case is progressing.
• Since the claims of US9246857 have not been substantively reviewed or invalidated by the PTAB, any defensive strategy considering an IPR should focus on presenting compelling prior art arguments that are robust enough to potentially sway the Board away from future discretionary denials, or explore alternative validity challenges.
• The patent remains "Active" with an anticipated expiration date of 2034-12-23.

https://e2e.uspto.gov/ptab/#!/case/IPR2025-01112
https://patents.google.com/patent/US9246857/en

Inventors

The sole named inventor is Adam Moisa. His employer at the time of filing is not explicitly stated in the provided patent text. The original assignee was CTEXT TECHNOLOGY LLC. It is unclear if Adam Moisa was employed by CTEXT TECHNOLOGY LLC at the time of filing or if he was an independent inventor.

Original assignee

The original assignee on the issued patent is CTEXT TECHNOLOGY LLC. Based on the provided patent information, it is not determinable whether CTEXT TECHNOLOGY LLC shipped a product embodying the claims, nor is their primary line of business explicitly stated beyond being involved in "methods and systems for correlating conversations in a messaging environment." The current status of CTEXT TECHNOLOGY LLC is likely dissolved or acquired, given the reassignment events.

Assignment timeline

• 2015-12-17 (executed) / recorded 2015-12-17 — Reel 034177/0993
  • Conveyance: Assignment
  • Assignor: MOISA, Adam
  • Assignee: CTEXT TECHNOLOGY LLC
  • Correspondent: Adam Moisa, 199 Lee Ave., Suite 814, Brooklyn, NY, 11211. This correspondent appears multiple times in this chain.
  • Context: Transfer from inventor to original assignee.
• 2021-05-04 (executed) / recorded 2021-06-03 — Reel 051012/0329
  • Conveyance: Assignment
  • Assignor: CTEXT TECHNOLOGY LLC
  • Assignee: MOISA, Adam
  • Correspondent: Adam Moisa, 199 Lee Ave., Suite 814, Brooklyn, NY, 11211. This correspondent appears multiple times in this chain.
  • Context: Transfer from original assignee back to inventor (NUNC PRO TUNC ASSIGNMENT).
• 2021-06-21 (executed) / recorded 2021-07-28 — Reel 051390/0675
  • Conveyance: Assignment
  • Assignor: MOISA, Adam
  • Assignee: BIN 2021, SERIES 650 OF ALLIED SECURITY TRUST I
  • Correspondent: Adam Moisa, 199 Lee Ave., Suite 814, Brooklyn, NY, 11211. This correspondent appears multiple times in this chain.
  • Context: Securitization or transfer to an entity associated with a defensive aggregator.
• 2022-08-03 (executed) / recorded 2022-08-16 — Reel 053123/0621
  • Conveyance: Assignment
  • Assignor: BIN 2021, SERIES 650 OF ALLIED SECURITY TRUST I
  • Assignee: CTEXT IP LLC
  • Correspondent: Adam Moisa, 199 Lee Ave., Suite 814, Brooklyn, NY, 11211. This correspondent appears multiple times in this chain.
  • Context: Transfer from securitization entity to current assignee.

Timeline diagram

timeline
    title Ownership of US 9246857
    2014 : Filed by CTEXT TECHNOLOGY LLC
    2015 : Issued
         : Assigned to CTEXT TECHNOLOGY LLC
    2021 : Assigned to Adam Moisa
         : Assigned to BIN 2021, Series 650 of Allied Security Trust I
    2022 : Assigned to CTEXT IP LLC

NPE / troll-pattern signals

1. Shell-entity transfer — present. The transfer to BIN 2021, SERIES 650 OF ALLIED SECURITY TRUST I (Reel 051390/0675) and subsequently to CTEXT IP LLC (Reel 053123/0621) are strong signals. CTEXT IP LLC, as the current assignee, bears a name suffix "IP" commonly associated with licensing entities. The provided information does not include product details for CTEXT IP LLC, but the naming convention combined with the litigation history points to a licensing focus.
2. Known asserter in the chain — present. BIN 2021, SERIES 650 OF ALLIED SECURITY TRUST I is associated with Allied Security Trust (AST), which is a known defensive aggregator (an anti-NPE, typically). However, the patent ultimately transferred to CTEXT IP LLC, and the litigation records indicate active assertion, suggesting a different role in this particular instance.
3. Repeat correspondent across the chain — present. Adam Moisa, 199 Lee Ave., Suite 814, Brooklyn, NY, 11211 is listed as the correspondent for all recorded assignments: Reel 034177/0993, Reel 051012/0329, Reel 051390/0675, and Reel 053123/0621. This consistent correspondent across multiple transfers, especially those involving entities like BIN 2021, SERIES 650 OF ALLIED SECURITY TRUST I and CTEXT IP LLC, is a strong indicator of a coordinated patent management strategy, often seen with NPEs.
4. Cascading transfers — present. There are two transfers within a short period in 2021: from CTEXT TECHNOLOGY LLC to Adam Moisa (recorded 2021-06-03, Reel 051012/0329) and then from Adam Moisa to BIN 2021, SERIES 650 OF ALLIED SECURITY TRUST I (recorded 2021-07-28, Reel 051390/0675). These transfers occurred within approximately two months.
5. Pre-litigation transfer — unclear. While there is active litigation (case 1:24-cv-08821 filed in the New York Southern District Court), the exact filing date for that case is not specified. The last assignment to CTEXT IP LLC was recorded on 2022-08-16 (Reel 053123/0621). Without the precise litigation filing date, it's not possible to definitively determine if this transfer occurred within 6 months prior to the first suit.
6. Bankruptcy fire-sale — not present. There is no indication in the provided information that any assignor in the chain filed for bankruptcy.
7. Privateering — unclear. There's no information to suggest that CTEXT IP LLC is asserting patents on behalf of an operating company.
8. Defensive aggregator (anti-NPE) — not present. While the patent was temporarily held by BIN 2021, SERIES 650 OF ALLIED SECURITY TRUST I (associated with AST), it subsequently transferred out to CTEXT IP LLC, which is actively engaged in litigation. Therefore, the chain does not terminate at a defensive aggregator.

Verdict

NPE — high confidence. The presence of multiple strong signals, including transfers to shell-like entities (CTEXT IP LLC and BIN 2021, SERIES 650 OF ALLIED SECURITY TRUST I), a repeat correspondent (Adam Moisa) across all recorded assignments, and cascading transfers in 2021 (Reel 051012/0329, Reel 051390/0675), strongly indicates an NPE assertion model. The current assignee, CTEXT IP LLC, is involved in active litigation in the New York Southern District Court (case 1:24-cv-08821).

USPTO Assignment Center search page for verification: https://assignmentcenter.uspto.gov/ (Search by patent number 9246857)

Most Relevant Prior Art for US Patent 9246857

To identify the most relevant prior art for US Patent 9246857, I have reviewed the "Citations" section of the patent, which lists documents cited by the examiner and/or third parties. These references represent the prior art considered during the patent's examination.

Here is an analysis of each cited prior art reference:

1. US20030093363A1

   • Full Citation: US20030093363A1 to Horsfall, Peter Richard P.
   • Publication/Filing Date: Publication date: May 15, 2003. Priority date: October 19, 2001.
   • Brief Description: This patent application describes a conversational dealing system. While the exact details of its messaging correlation are not immediately clear from the title, it pertains to systems for managing conversations, likely in a business or financial context.
   • Potential Anticipated Claims (35 U.S.C. § 102): Without a more detailed description of the "Conversational dealing system" in US20030093363A1, it is difficult to definitively pinpoint which claims of US9246857B2 it might anticipate. However, given its general subject matter of managing conversations, it could potentially be relevant to the broad concept of correlating conversations in a messaging environment as described in claims 1 and 15, particularly regarding the display and organization of messages within a conversation.

2. US20050138552A1

   • Full Citation: US20050138552A1 to Venolia, Gina D.
   • Publication/Filing Date: Publication date: June 23, 2005. Priority date: December 22, 2003.
   • Brief Description: This patent application describes methods for clustering messages. This implies grouping related messages together, which is a core function of conversation correlation.
   • Potential Anticipated Claims (35 U.S.C. § 102): This reference is highly relevant to US9246857B2, as "clustering messages" directly relates to "correlating conversations." It could potentially anticipate aspects of claims 1 and 15 related to identifying and grouping messages into conversations, as well as the display of these correlated messages. Specifically, elements regarding the visual cues for shared conversations (claim 1, claim 15) and the method of associating new messages with active conversations (claim 1, claim 15) could be anticipated if Venolia's system describes similar mechanisms.

3. US7185057B2

   • Full Citation: US7185057B2 to International Business Machines Corporation.
   • Publication/Filing Date: Publication date: February 27, 2007. Priority date: July 26, 2001.
   • Brief Description: This patent focuses on individually specifying message output attributes in a messaging system. This could relate to how messages are displayed and formatted.
   • Potential Anticipated Claims (35 U.S.C. § 102): This patent may anticipate elements of claims 1 and 15 related to the use of "visual cues" for messages. If "individually specifying message output attributes" includes attributes like color or other formatting to indicate conversational relationships, it could anticipate the visual cue aspects of claims 1 and 15.

4. US7200635B2

   • Full Citation: US7200635B2 to International Business Machines Corporation.
   • Publication/Filing Date: Publication date: April 3, 2007. Priority date: January 9, 2002.
   • Brief Description: This patent for a "Smart Messenger" likely involves advanced features for messaging, potentially including conversation management or organization.
   • Potential Anticipated Claims (35 U.S.C. § 102): Without more specific details about the "Smart Messenger" features, it's difficult to be precise. However, if the "Smart Messenger" includes mechanisms for identifying and visually correlating messages within ongoing conversations, it could potentially anticipate the core concepts of claims 1 and 15, particularly the display of messages with visual cues and the association of new messages.

5. US20080177994A1

   • Full Citation: US20080177994A1 to Mayer, Yaron.
   • Publication/Filing Date: Publication date: July 24, 2008. Priority date: January 12, 2003.
   • Brief Description: This application relates to a system and method for improving efficiency, comfort, and/or reliability in Operating Systems, such as for example Windows. The title does not immediately suggest direct relevance to messaging conversation correlation.
   • Potential Anticipated Claims (35 U.S.C. § 102): Based solely on the provided title, this reference does not appear to directly anticipate the claims of US9246857B2, which are specific to correlating conversations in a messaging environment. Its focus on general operating system efficiency seems outside the scope of messaging correlation.

6. US7475110B2

   • Full Citation: US7475110B2 to International Business Machines Corporation.
   • Publication/Filing Date: Publication date: January 6, 2009. Priority date: January 7, 2004.
   • Brief Description: This patent describes a method and interface for multi-threaded conversations in instant messaging. This is highly relevant to US9246857B2's focus on correlating conversations.
   • Potential Anticipated Claims (35 U.S.C. § 102): This reference is very strong prior art. "Multi-threaded conversations in instant messaging" directly addresses the problem US9246857B2 aims to solve. It could potentially anticipate most, if not all, elements of claims 1 and 15, especially those related to providing a discussion interface, displaying messages, identifying active conversations, associating new messages, and displaying them with visual cues. The novelty of US9246857B2 might reside in the specific mechanism of receiving an indication (e.g., tapping) and changing a visual element of the message entry location, rather than just the messages themselves.

7. US20100023586A1

   • Full Citation: US20100023586A1 to International Business Machines Corporation.
   • Publication/Filing Date: Publication date: January 28, 2010. Priority date: July 24, 2008.
   • Brief Description: This patent application describes a system and method for correlating questions and answers in an instant messaging environment. This is directly pertinent to conversation correlation.
   • Potential Anticipated Claims (35 U.S.C. § 102): This is another strong piece of prior art. "Correlating questions and answers in an instant messaging environment" directly addresses the problem of discerning conversation threads, a key aspect of US9246857B2. It could potentially anticipate elements of claims 1 and 15 concerning the association of messages with conversations and their display, especially if it describes visual indicators for question-answer pairs. The distinctiveness of US9246857B2 might again lie in the specific interaction methods and modification of the message entry location.

8. US20100115426A1

   • Full Citation: US20100115426A1 to Yahoo! Inc.
   • Publication/Filing Date: Publication date: May 6, 2010. Priority date: November 5, 2008.
   • Brief Description: This patent application for "Avatar environments" likely relates to virtual worlds or social platforms using avatars. The direct relevance to messaging conversation correlation is not immediately apparent.
   • Potential Anticipated Claims (35 U.S.C. § 102): Based on the title, this reference does not appear to directly anticipate the claims of US9246857B2, as its focus seems to be on avatar-based environments rather than the specific mechanics of correlating conversations in a messaging context.

9. US20100125791A1

   • Full Citation: US20100125791A1 to Rebelvox, Llc.
   • Publication/Filing Date: Publication date: May 20, 2010. Priority date: November 14, 2008.
   • Brief Description: This patent application describes a user interface for a telecommunication and multimedia management system and method. This is broad, but could potentially include messaging interfaces.
   • Potential Anticipated Claims (35 U.S.C. § 102): The broad nature of "user interface for a telecommunication and multimedia management system" makes it difficult to assess without further detail. However, if this interface includes features for organizing or correlating messaging conversations through visual cues or active conversation selection, it could potentially anticipate aspects of claims 1 and 15 related to the discussion interface, message entry location, and visual cues.

10. WO2011005641A2

    • Full Citation: WO2011005641A2 to T-Mobile Usa, Inc.
    • Publication/Filing Date: Publication date: January 13, 2011. Priority date: July 6, 2009.
    • Brief Description: This international application discusses communication mode swapping for telecommunications devices. This seems to focus on switching between different communication methods (e.g., voice, text) rather than conversation correlation within a single mode.
    • Potential Anticipated Claims (35 U.S.C. § 102): Based on the title, this reference does not appear to directly anticipate the claims of US9246857B2, as its focus is on communication mode management rather than specifically correlating conversations in a messaging environment.

11. US7885641B2

    • Full Citation: US7885641B2 to Research In Motion Limited.
    • Publication/Filing Date: Publication date: February 8, 2011. Priority date: June 18, 2007.
    • Brief Description: This patent describes a method and system for using subjects in instant messaging sessions on a mobile device. Using subjects can effectively group messages into conversations.
    • Potential Anticipated Claims (35 U.S.C. § 102): This is highly relevant prior art. The use of "subjects in instant messaging sessions" inherently provides a mechanism for correlating messages into conversations. This patent could potentially anticipate elements of claims 1 and 15 related to identifying and grouping conversations, displaying messages within a discussion interface, and associating new messages with a conversation. The visual cue aspect of US9246857B2 might differentiate it, depending on how "subjects" are visually represented in US7885641B2.

12. US8001184B2

    • Full Citation: US8001184B2 to International Business Machines Corporation.
    • Publication/Filing Date: Publication date: August 16, 2011. Priority date: January 27, 2006.
    • Brief Description: This patent details a system and method for managing an instant messaging conversation. This is directly relevant to the subject matter of US9246857B2.
    • Potential Anticipated Claims (35 U.S.C. § 102): This is strong prior art as it specifically addresses "managing an instant messaging conversation." It likely covers aspects of providing a discussion interface, displaying messages, and handling conversations. It could potentially anticipate the broad concepts of claims 1 and 15 regarding conversation correlation. The specific interaction for defining an "active conversation" and the visual changes to the message entry location in US9246857B2 might be distinguishing features.

13. US8024412B2

    • Full Citation: US8024412B2 to Microsoft Corporation.
    • Publication/Filing Date: Publication date: September 20, 2011. Priority date: February 15, 2008.
    • Brief Description: This patent describes a user interface reading email conversations. While specific to email, the concept of "reading email conversations" implies correlation and organization of messages within threads.
    • Potential Anticipated Claims (35 U.S.C. § 102): This reference is relevant, especially considering US9246857B2 also discusses application to email interfaces. It could potentially anticipate elements of claims 1 and 15 concerning displaying messages in a discussion interface and correlating them into conversations, particularly in the context of thread visualization. The interaction model for defining an "active conversation" and the modification of the message entry location, as claimed in US9246857B2, would be points of differentiation.

14. US8312095B2

    • Full Citation: US8312095B2 to International Business Machines Corporation.
    • Publication/Filing Date: Publication date: November 13, 2012. Priority date: January 30, 2008.
    • Brief Description: This patent describes tracking interactive text-message communications. "Tracking" implies organizing and maintaining context for these communications.
    • Potential Anticipated Claims (35 U.S.C. § 102): "Tracking interactive text-message communications" is directly related to correlating conversations. This patent could potentially anticipate the broad idea of identifying and managing ongoing conversation threads as claimed in claims 1 and 15. The specific visual cues and the dynamic modification of the message entry location described in US9246857B2 might provide novelty.

15. US20130090138A1

    • Full Citation: US20130090138A1 to Facebook, Inc.
    • Publication/Filing Date: Publication date: April 11, 2013. Priority date: March 6, 2000.
    • Brief Description: This patent application is titled "Processing messages based on a destination device." While it deals with messages, the focus appears to be on routing or handling based on the recipient device, rather than explicit conversation correlation for the user interface.
    • Potential Anticipated Claims (35 U.S.C. § 102): Based on the title, this reference does not appear to directly anticipate the claims of US9246857B2, as its focus on message processing based on destination device is distinct from correlating conversations within a user interface.

16. US8473553B2

    • Full Citation: US8473553B2 to International Business Machines Corporation.
    • Publication/Filing Date: Publication date: June 25, 2013. Priority date: February 19, 2009.
    • Brief Description: This patent focuses on the management of multiple synchronous responses to a single question in community-based instant messaging. This is a very specific type of conversation correlation.
    • Potential Anticipated Claims (35 U.S.C. § 102): This reference is highly relevant. It addresses a specific challenge within multi-party messaging that US9246857B2 also aims to improve upon. It could potentially anticipate aspects of claims 1 and 15 related to identifying and organizing responses within a conversation thread, especially if it involves visual distinctions for these responses. The mechanism for a user to actively define an "active conversation" and the visual change to the message entry location in US9246857B2 remain key differentiating features.

17. US20130198296A1

    • Full Citation: US20130198296A1 to Global Relay Communications Inc.
    • Publication/Filing Date: Publication date: August 1, 2013. Priority date: January 31, 2012.
    • Brief Description: This patent application describes a system and method for processing messages in a messaging service. This is a broad title, but "processing messages" could include organization.
    • Potential Anticipated Claims (35 U.S.C. § 102): The broad title makes it challenging to assess precise anticipation. However, if "processing messages" in this context involves identifying and linking messages that belong to the same conversation and presenting them in a correlated manner, it could potentially anticipate the general concept of conversation correlation in claims 1 and 15. More specific details would be needed to determine anticipation of the unique UI/UX elements of US9246857B2.

18. WO2013116848A2

    • Full Citation: WO2013116848A2 to [Apple Inc.](/litigations/by-plaintiff/Apple%20Inc.)
    • Publication/Filing Date: Publication date: August 8, 2013. Priority date: February 5, 2012.
    • Brief Description: This international application is titled "Unified communication application." A unified communication application often integrates various forms of communication, potentially including messaging with organized conversations.
    • Potential Anticipated Claims (35 U.S.C. § 102): While "Unified communication application" is broad, such applications typically aim to streamline communication, which might include conversation threading or correlation. If this application describes methods for users to actively select a conversation context for new messages and provides visual feedback, it could potentially anticipate aspects of claims 1 and 15 related to the discussion interface, message entry, and visual cues.

19. US8543927B1

    • Full Citation: US8543927B1 to Google Inc.
    • Publication/Filing Date: Publication date: September 24, 2013. Priority date: November 1, 2007.
    • Brief Description: This patent describes methods for simulating icon popout on memory constrained devices. This appears to be a user interface technique for displaying information on limited-resource devices, rather than conversation correlation.
    • Potential Anticipated Claims (35 U.S.C. § 102): Based on the title, this reference does not appear to directly anticipate the claims of US9246857B2, as its focus is on icon display on memory-constrained devices, not the correlation of messages into conversations.

20. US20140040784A1

    • Full Citation: US20140040784A1 to Google Inc.
    • Publication/Filing Date: Publication date: February 6, 2014. Priority date: June 20, 2007.
    • Brief Description: This patent application describes a "Multi-user chat" system. Multi-user chat environments often face the challenge of correlating conversations, which is the core of US9246857B2.
    • Potential Anticipated Claims (35 U.S.C. § 102): This is highly relevant prior art. A "Multi-user chat" system would almost certainly need mechanisms to manage and display multiple conversation threads. It could potentially anticipate elements of claims 1 and 15, particularly concerning the discussion interface, displaying messages, and the general concept of correlating conversations in a multi-user environment. The specific interaction model for defining an "active conversation" and the visual change to the message entry location in US9246857B2 would likely be distinguishing features.

21. US8725813B2

    • Full Citation: US8725813B2 to Microsoft Corporation.
    • Publication/Filing Date: Publication date: May 13, 2014. Priority date: September 30, 2008.
    • Brief Description: This patent describes communications grouped as conversations. This is directly on point with the subject matter of US9246857B2.
    • Potential Anticipated Claims (35 U.S.C. § 102): This is extremely strong prior art. "Communications grouped as conversations" directly aligns with the core inventive concept of US9246857B2. It likely anticipates the broad ideas of claims 1 and 15 related to providing a discussion interface, displaying messages, and grouping them into conversations. The specific user interaction of "receiving a first indication that the first message is part of an active conversation" and "changing a visual element of the message entry location" (Claim 1) or "modifying a visual element of the message entry location" (Claim 15) could be distinguishing features for US9246857B2.

Overall Most Relevant Prior Art:

The most relevant prior art references appear to be those that explicitly deal with multi-threaded conversations, grouping messages into conversations, or correlating questions and answers in messaging environments. These include:

• US7475110B2 (IBM): "Method and interface for multi-threaded conversations in instant messaging."
• US20100023586A1 (IBM): "System and method for correlating questions and answers in an instant messaging environment."
• US7885641B2 (Research In Motion Limited): "Method and system for using subjects in instant messaging sessions on a mobile device."
• US8001184B2 (IBM): "System and method for managing an instant messaging conversation."
• US8024412B2 (Microsoft): "User interface reading email conversations."
• US8312095B2 (IBM): "Tracking interactive text-message communications."
• US8473553B2 (IBM): "Management of multiple synchronous responses to single question in community-based instant messaging."
• US20140040784A1 (Google): "Multi-user chat."
• US8725813B2 (Microsoft): "Communications grouped as conversations."

These patents and applications directly address the core problem of managing and visualizing multiple intertwined conversations, which is the central theme of US9246857B2. The novelty of US9246857B2 likely lies in the specific user interaction model for defining an "active conversation" (e.g., tapping an existing message) and the subsequent change in the visual element of the message entry location to match the visual cue of the active conversation, which is a key element of both independent claims 1 and 15. While other prior art may show visual cues for messages, the explicit change to the input area to reflect the active conversation's visual cue appears to be a distinguishing feature of US9246857B2.

Obviousness Analysis of US Patent 9246857 under 35 U.S.C. § 103

This analysis identifies combinations of prior art references that would render the claims of US Patent 9246857 obvious to a person having ordinary skill in the art (PHOSITA). The core inventive concept of US 9246857, as defined by independent claims 1 and 15, is the modification of a visual element of the message entry location to match a visual cue associated with an active conversation.

Independent Claim 1: Method for Correlating Conversations

Claim 1 broadly describes a computer-based method comprising:

1. Providing a discussion interface displaying messages.
2. Providing a message entry location.
3. Receiving an indication that a message is part of an active conversation.
4. Changing a visual element of the message entry location to match a first visual cue shared by messages associated with the active conversation.
5. Receiving a new message.
6. Displaying the new message incorporating the first visual cue.

Combination of Prior Art:
A combination of US Patent 7,475,110 B2 to International Business Machines Corporation (IBM) ("Method and interface for multi-threaded conversations in instant messaging") [cite: US7475110B2] in view of general user interface (UI) design principles or US Patent 7,185,057 B2 to IBM ("Individually specifying message output attributes in a messaging system") [cite: US7185057B2] would render Claim 1 obvious.

Reasoning for Obviousness:

1. US 7,475,110 B2 (IBM), hereafter "IBM '110," describes a method and interface for managing multi-threaded conversations in an instant messaging (IM) environment. IBM '110 teaches:

   • Providing a discussion interface that displays multiple messages, where these messages can belong to different conversation threads (corresponding to "first message and a second message"). [cite: US7475110B2]
   • The capability for a user to select a message to reply to, thereby effectively indicating that the selected message is part of an "active conversation" for the purpose of the subsequent reply. [cite: US7475110B2]
   • Displaying new messages with a visual cue (e.g., indentation, different colors/fonts, graphical elements like lines) that is shared by other messages belonging to the same conversation thread (active conversation). [cite: US7475110B2]
   • The presence of a message entry location is inherent and well-known in any instant messaging system interface.

2. Missing Element: While IBM '110 teaches visually distinguishing conversation threads and associating replies with them via visual cues, it does not explicitly disclose "changing a visual element of the message entry location upon receipt of the first indication to match a first visual cue shared by messages associated with the active conversation."

3. Motivation to Combine with General UI Design Principles / US 7,185,057 B2 (IBM):
   A person having ordinary skill in the art (PHOSITA) in 2013 (the priority date of US 9246857) would be familiar with common UI design practices aimed at enhancing user experience and clarity in software applications. In a multi-threaded messaging environment, where visual cues are already employed to distinguish different conversations (as taught by IBM '110), it would be an obvious design choice to extend this visual context to the message entry location itself.

   The motivation for such a modification would be to:

   • Reduce User Confusion: Explicitly showing the active conversation's visual cue in the input area provides immediate and continuous feedback to the user, preventing them from accidentally sending a message to the wrong thread, especially in fast-paced or complex conversations.
   • Improve Consistency: Extending the visual theme from the displayed messages to the input area creates a more coherent and intuitive user interface.
   • Enhance Usability: By reinforcing the context of the user's current action, the interface becomes easier and more efficient to use.

   Changing a visual element of an input field, such as its background color (as specifically claimed in US9246857, e.g., claim 9 and 13), to reflect the currently active context is a well-known UI technique. For instance, input fields often change color when selected, or form sections might highlight based on user interaction. US 7,185,057 B2 (IBM) further supports this by teaching the ability to "individually specify message output attributes" like color, font, and size in a messaging system, demonstrating that dynamic visual customization of UI elements in communication applications was known. Applying a visual attribute (like color) consistently across related UI elements (messages and their corresponding input box) would be a straightforward application of existing design principles and known techniques.

   Therefore, a PHOSITA would be motivated to combine the multi-threaded conversation management and visual cues of IBM '110 with general UI principles of contextual visual feedback or the teachings of US 7,185,057 B2 regarding customizable visual attributes, to arrive at the method of Claim 1.

Independent Claim 15: System for Correlating Conversations

Claim 15 describes a system comprising an interface device with a processor, memory, transmission unit, and display, where a software application is configured to perform functions largely mirroring Claim 1, including:

1. Providing a discussion interface and message entry location.
2. Recording an indication of an active conversation.
3. Modifying a visual element of the message entry location based on the active conversation.
4. Receiving and transmitting new messages with active conversation indication.
5. Displaying new messages with shared visual cues.

Combination of Prior Art:
The same combination of US Patent 7,475,110 B2 to IBM [cite: US7475110B2] in view of general UI design principles or US Patent 7,185,057 B2 to IBM [cite: US7185057B2] would render Claim 15 obvious.

Reasoning for Obviousness:

1. IBM '110 describes a "system" for multi-threaded instant messaging, inherently teaching an interface device with the necessary hardware components (processor, memory, transmission unit, display) and software instructions to implement the methods described therein. [cite: US7475110B2] This includes:

   • Software for providing a discussion interface and a message entry location.
   • Software for recording a user's selection of an active conversation thread.
   • Software for receiving new messages and transmitting them.
   • Software for displaying new messages with visual cues associated with their conversation thread.

2. Missing Element: IBM '110 does not explicitly teach software instructions for "modifying a visual element of the message entry location based on which of the conversations is the active conversation."

3. Motivation to Combine with General UI Design Principles / US 7,185,057 B2 (IBM):
   Given that the method of visually distinguishing the message entry location to match the active conversation is obvious, as argued for Claim 1, it would be equally obvious for a PHOSITA to implement the corresponding system functionality. Creating software instructions to modify a visual element (e.g., changing the background color of a text entry box, as specified in Claim 17 of US9246857) based on the user's active conversation selection is a routine programming task for a developer working on a messaging application. The application of consistent visual cues across an interface to enhance user understanding and prevent errors is a fundamental principle of UI development. IBM '057 further reinforces the prior art's understanding of specifying and applying visual attributes to messaging elements. Moreover, the inclusion of "user preferences" for defining visual cues (Claim 18 of US9246857) is a common feature in many software applications, allowing users to customize their interface, and would be an obvious addition to such a system.

   Therefore, the system described in Claim 15 would be obvious by combining the known system architecture and functionality of IBM '110 with standard UI implementation techniques and principles, possibly informed by patents like IBM '057, to provide clearer contextual feedback to the user in a multi-threaded messaging environment.

To provide a comprehensive analysis of US Patent 9246857 from the USPTO database, including patent term adjustments (PTA), patent term extensions (PTE), continuation applications, divisional applications, related family members, and the projected expiration date, I need to access the USPTO Patent Public Search or Patent Center directly. My current search capabilities allow me to search for general information about a patent, but not to delve into the detailed file wrapper data required for PTA/PTE calculations, or to definitively identify all continuation/divisional applications and their statuses within the USPTO system in real-time.

Based on the information provided in the prompt and my initial search, I can confirm the following:

• Patent Number: US9246857B2
• Application Number: US14/581,178 [cite: Publication number]
• Filing Date: December 23, 2014 [cite: Filing date]
• Publication Date: January 26, 2016 [cite: Publication date]
• Anticipated Expiration: December 23, 2034 [cite: Anticipated expiration]

Regarding Continuation and Divisional Applications:

The provided information lists "Priority Applications" and "Related Child Applications" which are crucial for identifying continuations and divisionals.

• Priority Applications:
  • US14/581,178 (which is the application that led to US9246857B2) [cite: Priority to US14/581,1178]
  • US14/972,919 (which led to US10009304B2) [cite: Priority to US14/972,919]
• Related Child Applications:
  • US14/972,919 (listed as a Continuation) [cite: Related Child Applications]

This indicates that US14/972,919 is a continuation application stemming from the same priority date.

Regarding Patent Term Adjustments (PTA) and Patent Term Extensions (PTE):

The provided information does not explicitly state any PTA or PTE amounts. The "Anticipated expiration" date of December 23, 2034, is provided. The statutory patent term for utility patents filed on or after June 8, 1995, is generally 20 years from the earliest filing date of the application from which the patent claims priority. The priority date for US9246857B2 is December 23, 2013 [cite: Priority date]. A 20-year term from this date would typically lead to an expiration date of December 23, 2033. The listed "Anticipated expiration" of December 23, 2034, suggests a one-year adjustment, which could be due to Patent Term Adjustment (PTA). However, without direct access to the USPTO's official patent records for detailed prosecution history, the exact breakdown of any PTA or PTE cannot be confirmed.

Related Family Members:

The patent family ID is 53401372 [cite: Family ID]. Other family members explicitly mentioned include:

• US20150180808A1 (publication of US14/581,178) [cite: Publication of US20150180808A1]
• US10009304B2 (granted from application US14/972,919) [cite: Priority to US14/972,919]
• WO2015100321A1 (PCT publication) [cite: Country Status]

To definitively confirm all continuation and divisional applications, as well as the precise PTA/PTE calculations, a direct query to the USPTO's Patent Center or Public Search with detailed parameters would be necessary.

Defensive Disclosure Document for US Patent 9246857

This document outlines defensive disclosures for derivative variations of the methods and systems described in US Patent 9246857, "Method and system for correlating conversations in a messaging environment." The aim is to create prior art for future incremental improvements by competitors, rendering such advancements obvious or non-novel.

Core Claims Under Analysis:

• Independent Claim 1: A computer-based method for correlating conversations in a messaging environment, characterized by changing a visual element of the message entry location to match a visual cue of the active conversation.
• Independent Claim 15: A system for correlating conversations, comprising an interface device with a processor, memory, transmission unit, display, and software instructions to perform functions including modifying a visual element of the message entry location based on the active conversation.

---

Derivatives of Independent Claim 1: Computer-Based Method for Correlating Conversations

1.1 Material & Component Substitution: Haptic-Visual-Auditory Feedback Loop

Enabling Description:
A method for correlating conversations wherein the "visual element" of the message entry location is supplemented or replaced by a multi-modal feedback loop. Upon receiving a first indication that a first message is part of an active conversation (e.g., via a tapping input on a touch-sensitive display), the system activates a haptic actuator embedded within the interface device (e.g., a piezoelectric vibrator or linear resonant actuator located beneath the virtual keyboard area). This haptic feedback generates a distinct tactile pattern (e.g., a specific vibration frequency or amplitude modulation) corresponding to the first visual cue of the active conversation. Concurrently, an audio feedback module (e.g., a miniature speaker) emits a unique auditory cue (e.g., a specific tone or short melody) associated with the active conversation. The message entry location’s background color (visual element) may still change, but the primary contextual feedback to the user regarding the active conversation is provided through these synchronized haptic and auditory patterns, which are then also optionally embedded as metadata with the newly transmitted messages and replicated on receiving devices that support multi-modal cues.

graph TD
    A[User Taps Message 1 (Indication)] --> B{Determine Active Conversation's Multi-Modal Cue};
    B --> C[Change Message Entry Location Visual Element (e.g., Color)];
    B --> D[Activate Haptic Actuator (Tactile Pattern)];
    B --> E[Activate Audio Feedback Module (Auditory Tone)];
    C & D & E --> F[User Enters New Message];
    F --> G[New Message Displayed with Multi-Modal Cues];
    G --> H[Transmit New Message with Multi-Modal Metadata];

1.2 Operational Parameter Expansion: High-Frequency Micro-Interaction Correlation in Augmented Reality Overlay

Enabling Description:
A method for correlating conversations optimized for high-frequency, transient micro-interactions within a spatially augmented reality (AR) messaging environment. The discussion interface is projected onto a real-world surface via an AR headset or smart glasses, displaying messages as ephemeral holograms. A "message entry location" is a gesture-controlled virtual keyboard or speech-to-text input field. Upon detection of a user's focused gaze or a specific hand gesture (e.g., air-tap or pinch) on a holographic message (the "first indication"), the AR system instantaneously changes a visual element of the virtual message entry location – specifically, the holographic tint or glow of the gesture-controlled input area – to match a transient, highly saturated color cue (first visual cue) associated with the selected active conversation. This also includes a spatially localized audio prompt. This change persists for a configurable micro-duration (e.g., 500ms-2s) or until the first character input, enabling rapid conversational switching in dynamic environments like a factory floor or surgical theater, where quick, context-aware responses are critical. The system operates with sub-50ms latency for cue updates to support real-time interaction rates.

stateDiagram-v2
    state "Idle" as Idle
    state "Message_Selected" as Sel
    state "Input_Active" as Input
    state "Message_Sent" as Sent
    
    Idle --> Sel: Gaze/Gesture on Holographic Message
    Sel --> Input: Activate Virtual Keyboard / Speech Input
    Sel: Update Virtual Keyboard Holographic Tint (Visual Cue)
    Sel: Play Spatial Audio Prompt
    Input --> Sent: New Message Entered & Transmitted
    Input --> Idle: Timeout / Clear Selection
    Sent --> Idle: Display New Message (Holographic Tinted)

1.3 Cross-Domain Application: Industrial Workflow Coordination in Manufacturing

Enabling Description:
A computer-based method for correlating conversations in an industrial manufacturing workflow coordination environment. The discussion interface is integrated into a ruggedized tablet or industrial control panel displaying production messages (e.g., machine alerts, task assignments, quality control reports) chronologically. Operators utilize the "message entry location" (a touch-panel keyboard or voice input module) to communicate. When an operator selects a specific machine alert message (e.g., "Lathe #3 Spindle Overheat") as an "active conversation" via a touch input, the bezel of the message entry location changes its LED indicator color to red (matching a visual cue for critical alerts). Subsequent operator messages (e.g., "Checking coolant line on Lathe #3") entered into this location are automatically tagged with the "Lathe #3 Spindle Overheat" conversation ID and displayed within the discussion interface with the same red highlight, ensuring immediate context for all team members monitoring the workflow. This system is crucial for rapid incident response and clear communication in complex, multi-operator environments.

flowchart TD
    A[Industrial Control Panel Display] --> B{Display Production Messages (Chronological)};
    B --> C[Operator Selects Machine Alert (e.g., "Lathe #3 Overheat")];
    C --> D{Indication Received: Alert is Active Conversation};
    D --> E[Change Message Entry Location LED Bezel Color to Red (Match Cue)];
    E --> F[Operator Inputs New Message];
    F --> G[New Message Displayed with Red Highlight];
    G --> H[New Message Transmitted with Alert ID];
    H --> I[Team Monitors Correlated Messages];

1.4 Integration with Emerging Tech: AI-Optimized Contextual Messaging with IoT & Blockchain

Enabling Description:
A method for correlating conversations where the "active conversation" selection and associated visual cues are dynamically optimized by an AI-driven context engine, incorporating real-time IoT sensor data, and conversation attribution is immutably recorded on a blockchain. The discussion interface displays messages from human users and IoT devices (e.g., "Temperature sensor A reporting 25°C," "Door lock B status: open"). Upon a user's selection of a message (first indication), an AI context engine (e.g., a Transformer model trained on conversational data and sensor logs) analyzes the message content, sender, timestamp, and relevant historical IoT data to infer the most probable "active conversation." The AI then dynamically generates or refines a specific visual cue (e.g., a gradient color, an animated icon) for the identified conversation, which is immediately applied to the "message entry location" and subsequently to new messages. Each new message, along with its AI-attributed conversation ID and visual cue parameters, is hashed and recorded as a transaction on a private blockchain, ensuring an auditable and tamper-proof record of conversation context. IoT sensors continuously feed environmental or operational data into the messaging stream, and the AI uses this to suggest relevant conversation threads for new messages or to automatically activate threads based on critical sensor events.

graph TD
    A[User Interface Device] -- User Input/Selection --> B(Messaging Application);
    B -- Display Messages --> C(Discussion Interface);
    B -- Provide Input --> D(Message Entry Location);
    C -- First Indication (e.g., Tap on Message) --> E(AI Context Engine);
    E -- Real-time IoT Data Stream --> F(IoT Sensor Network);
    E -- Analyze Content & Context --> G(Dynamic Visual Cue Generation);
    G --> D;
    D -- New Message Input --> H(New Message);
    H -- AI Attribution & Cue Parameters --> I(Blockchain Transaction Processor);
    I -- Immutable Record --> J(Private Blockchain Ledger);
    J --> B;
    H --> C;

1.5 The "Inverse" or Failure Mode: Graceful Degradation to Uncorrelated Safe-Mode

Enabling Description:
A computer-based method for correlating conversations designed to operate in a "graceful degradation" or "safe-mode" when system resources are critically low (e.g., low battery, network congestion, processor overload) or when explicit conversation correlation is temporarily de-activated by a user. Normally, the method provides a discussion interface with messages and a message entry location, changing its visual element to match an active conversation's visual cue upon user indication. In safe-mode, upon detection of a resource constraint or user de-activation, the system performs the following:

1. Visual Element Reset: The visual element of the message entry location immediately reverts to a neutral, default, and un-changeable grayscale color or a "safe-mode" indicator icon (e.g., a broken chain link symbol), signaling that no active conversation is currently selected or that the correlation feature is inactive.
2. Conversation De-activation: Any previously defined "active conversation" is de-activated.
3. Default Display: New messages received at the message entry location are transmitted and displayed in the discussion interface without any conversational visual cues (e.g., plain text, default bubble color), effectively reverting to a chronological, uncorrelated message stream.
4. Limited Persistence: While the system still logs message content, the advanced correlation metadata (conversation IDs) is not processed or applied to new messages until normal operation is restored, preserving core communication while sacrificing contextual linking. The discussion interface may also fade or de-emphasize existing visual cues for correlated messages to further highlight the safe-mode state.

stateDiagram-v2
    state "Normal_Operation" as Normal
    state "Safe_Mode_Degraded" as Safe
    
    Normal --> Normal: User Correlates Conversations
    Normal --> Safe: Low_Resources / User_Deactivates
    Safe --> Normal: Resources_Restored / User_Reactivates
    
    Normal: Message Entry Location Tinted by Active Conversation
    Normal: New Messages Correlated with Visual Cues
    
    Safe: Message Entry Location: Grayscale / Broken Chain Icon
    Safe: Active Conversation Deactivated
    Safe: New Messages: Default Formatting (Uncorrelated)
    Safe: Existing Cues Faded/De-emphasized

---

Derivatives of Independent Claim 15: System for Correlating Conversations

2.1 Material & Component Substitution: Neuromorphic Computing with Plasmonic Displays

Enabling Description:
A system for correlating conversations, where the "interface device" utilizes a neuromorphic processor (e.g., IBM TrueNorth, Intel Loihi) for efficient pattern recognition to infer conversational context and optimize visual cue selection. The "memory" includes phase-change memory (PCM) or other non-volatile memory arrays integrated directly with the neuromorphic cores for rapid context storage. The "transmission unit" employs optical fiber transceivers operating at terabit speeds for near-instantaneous message and metadata propagation across the computerized network. The "display" is a plasmonic surface display, generating highly localized and dynamic color shifts (visual cues) directly on the substrate of the message entry location and individual message bubbles using surface plasmon resonance, providing energy-efficient and high-contrast visual differentiation. The "software application" instructions are optimized for parallel processing on the neuromorphic hardware, allowing for real-time, low-power inference of conversational intent.

classDiagram
    class InterfaceDevice {
        +NeuromorphicProcessor processor
        +PhaseChangeMemory memory
        +OpticalTransceiver transmissionUnit
        +PlasmonicDisplay display
        +SoftwareApplication software
    }
    class SoftwareApplication {
        +provideDiscussionInterface()
        +provideMessageEntryLocation()
        +recordActiveConversation()
        +modifyMessageEntryLocationVisualElement()
        +receiveNewMessage()
        +transmitNewMessage()
        +displayNewMessage()
    }
    class NeuromorphicProcessor {
        +inferConversationContext()
        +optimizeVisualCue()
    }
    class PlasmonicDisplay {
        +generateLocalizedColorShift()
    }
    InterfaceDevice "1" -- "1" NeuromorphicProcessor
    InterfaceDevice "1" -- "1" PhaseChangeMemory
    InterfaceDevice "1" -- "1" OpticalTransceiver
    InterfaceDevice "1" -- "1" PlasmonicDisplay
    InterfaceDevice "1" -- "1" SoftwareApplication

2.2 Operational Parameter Expansion: Ultra-Scale Distributed Messaging System for Global Disaster Response

Enabling Description:
A system for correlating conversations designed for ultra-scale, high-resilience operation across a globally distributed network, such as in disaster response scenarios involving millions of concurrent users and sparse, intermittent network connectivity. The "interface device" can range from satellite phones with monochrome LCDs and physical keyboards to ruggedized tablets with solar charging. The "computerized network" is a hybrid mesh network integrating satellite links, ad-hoc radio, and opportunistic peer-to-peer connections. The "processor" is designed for asynchronous, eventually consistent message processing. The "memory" incorporates distributed hash tables (DHTs) for conversation indexing, replicated across multiple nodes for fault tolerance. The "transmission unit" includes adaptive multi-path routing algorithms. The "software application" is instructed to:

1. Prioritize critical conversations based on pre-defined emergency keywords, applying high-contrast visual cues (e.g., flashing red background for crisis updates) to the message entry location and messages.
2. Dynamically adjust the complexity of visual cues based on display capabilities (e.g., color-coding on high-res displays, simple prefixes like [CRITICAL] on monochrome displays).
3. Support delayed message synchronization and retroactive conversation correlation when connectivity is re-established, inferring context from message content and sender metadata.
   The system is built to handle message volumes exceeding petabytes per day with eventual consistency, where an "active conversation" might be defined hours after message reception due to network delays.

graph LR
    subgraph Global Disaster Response Network
        N1[Satellite Network] --- C(Central Server / DHT);
        M1[Mesh Network 1] --- C;
        M2[Mesh Network 2] --- C;
        N1 --- M1;
        M1 --- M2;
        M2 --- N1;
    end
    
    subgraph Interface Devices
        ID1[Ruggedized Tablet] -- Ad-hoc Link --> M1;
        ID2[Satellite Phone] -- Satellite Link --> N1;
        ID3[Standard Device] -- Opportunistic P2P --> ID1;
    end

    C -- Distributes/Replicates --> D(Distributed Conversation Index / DHT);
    ID1 -- Software App --> ID1_Display(Display);
    ID1 -- Software App --> ID1_Input(Message Entry Location);
    ID1_Input -- Modifies Visual Element based on Criticality --> ID1_Display;
    ID1_Display -- Displays Messages with Cues (e.g., Flashing Red) --> ID1;

2.3 Cross-Domain Application: Automated Healthcare Patient Communication Hub

Enabling Description:
A system for correlating patient-healthcare provider conversations within an automated healthcare communication hub. The "interface device" is a HIPAA-compliant medical workstation or a secure patient portal accessed via a tablet. The "computerized network" is a secure hospital-grade intranet/cloud. The "processor" is specialized for privacy-preserving data handling. The "memory" stores encrypted patient messages and conversation metadata. The "transmission unit" uses secure protocols (e.g., FHIR-compliant APIs). The "display" shows a chronological feed of patient-provider interactions, including incoming patient messages, nurse notes, doctor's orders, and automated alerts (e.g., "Patient X blood pressure high").
The "software application" comprises instructions for:

1. Presenting a discussion interface with messages relevant to a specific patient.
2. Providing a message entry location for medical staff.
3. Recording a "first indication" (e.g., a clinician tapping a specific lab result message "Patient X Glucose: 250mg/dL") to define it as the "active conversation" for that patient.
4. Modifying a visual element of the message entry location (e.g., changing its border color to a specific "Glucose Monitoring" color).
5. Receiving new messages (e.g., "Administered 10 units insulin for Patient X") at this entry location, transmitting them with the "Glucose Monitoring" conversation ID, and displaying them with the matching border color visual cue. This ensures that all related medical staff quickly understand the context of new entries.

flowchart TD
    A[Patient Portal / EMR System] --> B(Medical Workstation / Tablet);
    B -- Secure Network --> C(Healthcare Communication Hub Server);
    C -- Encrypted Data --> D(Patient Message Database);
    B -- Display --> DI(Discussion Interface: Patient X);
    B -- Input --> MEL(Message Entry Location);
    DI -- Clinician Taps Lab Result Message --> SA(Software Application);
    SA -- Records "Glucose Monitoring" as Active Conv. --> CONV_IDX(Conversation Index);
    SA -- Modifies MEL Border Color (e.g., Green) --> MEL;
    MEL -- Clinician Inputs New Message --> SA;
    SA -- Transmits with Conv ID --> C;
    C -- Stores & Replicates --> D;
    DI -- Displays New Message with Green Border --> DI;

2.4 Integration with Emerging Tech: Decentralized Autonomous Messaging with Web3 Integration

Enabling Description:
A system for correlating conversations operating on a decentralized, Web3-enabled network, where conversation indices and user preferences are managed via smart contracts, and real-time interactions leverage peer-to-peer protocols. The "interface device" is a client-side application (e.g., a DApp in a Web3 browser or a mobile client) with a "processor" executing WASM (WebAssembly) modules for client-side logic. The "memory" stores ephemeral message history locally and interacts with IPFS (InterPlanetary File System) for permanent content storage. The "transmission unit" uses a libp2p network for peer-to-peer message exchange and WebSockets for real-time signaling.
The "software application" comprises instructions for:

1. Providing a discussion interface displaying messages fetched from IPFS and local cache.
2. Providing a message entry location whose visual element (e.g., a dynamic background pattern) is determined by user preferences stored on a smart contract on an EVM-compatible blockchain (e.g., Ethereum, Polygon).
3. Recording an indication (e.g., a cryptographically signed tap event) that one of several conversations (identified by a conversation topic hash on the blockchain) is "active."
4. Modifying the message entry location's visual element by querying the smart contract for the active conversation's associated pattern.
5. Receiving new messages, encrypting them, transmitting them via libp2p with the conversation topic hash and a reference to the visual cue from the smart contract, and displaying them with the matching pattern. This allows for sovereign control over conversation indexing and visual presentation, while maintaining decentralized, censorship-resistant communication.

sequenceDiagram
    participant U as User
    participant ID as Interface Device (DApp)
    participant WC as Web3 Contract (Blockchain)
    participant IPFS as IPFS Network
    participant P2P as Peer-to-Peer Network
    
    U->ID: Load Messaging DApp
    ID->WC: Get User Preferences (Visual Cues)
    WC-->ID: UserPrefs (e.g., Conv1: PatternA)
    ID->ID: Display Discussion Interface
    ID->U: Displays Messages from IPFS
    U->ID: Tap Message (Conversation 1)
    ID->WC: Record Active Conversation (Conv1)
    WC-->ID: Confirmation (Conv1 Active)
    ID->ID: Modify Message Entry Location (Pattern A)
    U->ID: Enter New Message
    ID->P2P: Transmit (New Message, Conv1 Hash, PatternA Ref)
    P2P-->ID: Receive New Message
    ID->IPFS: Store New Message Content (Optional)
    ID->ID: Display New Message (Pattern A)

2.5 The "Inverse" or Failure Mode: Forensic Audit Log System with Correlated Failure Indicators

Enabling Description:
A system for correlating communications in a critical infrastructure monitoring environment, designed primarily for forensic auditing and failure analysis, where visual cues indicate deviations from normal conversation patterns or the imminent failure of system components. The "interface device" is a specialized diagnostic console. The "computerized network" monitors various industrial control systems (ICS) and SCADA systems. The "processor" is hardened for tamper detection. The "memory" stores historical communication logs and operational thresholds. The "transmission unit" provides secure logging to a central audit server.
The "software application" comprises instructions for:

1. Displaying a discussion interface with aggregated system events and operator communications.
2. Providing a message entry location for operator annotations or commands.
3. Recording an "indication" that a specific anomalous event (e.g., "Pump A Pressure Spike") is part of an "active investigation conversation."
4. Modifying a visual element of the message entry location (e.g., a pulsing amber outline) not to match a conversation, but to indicate the severity of the anomaly or the investigation status.
5. Receiving new messages (e.g., operator notes: "Investigating Pump A seals") at this location.
6. Displaying these new messages with a distinct visual cue (e.g., a "failure mode" icon) and a color corresponding to the anomaly's root cause classification (e.g., red for mechanical failure, blue for software fault), ensuring all audit entries are explicitly linked to the failure context. The system may also automatically highlight messages that lack correlation, as a "failure" of the correlation system itself.

graph TD
    A[Critical Infrastructure Monitoring System] --> B(Aggregated System Events);
    B --> C{Diagnostic Console Interface Device};
    C -- Display Events & Comms --> D(Discussion Interface);
    C -- Input --> E(Message Entry Location);
    D -- Operator Selects Anomaly (e.g., "Pump A Spike") --> F{Anomaly Investigation Engine};
    F --> G[Records "Anomaly Investigation" as Active Conv. for Audit];
    G -- Determine Anomaly Severity/Status --> E_MOD[Modify MEL Visual Element (e.g., Pulsing Amber Outline)];
    E -- Operator Inputs Investigation Note --> H(New Audit Log Entry);
    H -- Transmits with Anomaly ID & Status --> I(Central Audit Server);
    D -- Displays New Entry with "Failure Mode" Icon & Anomaly Color --> D;

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Combination Prior Art Scenarios with Open-Source Standards

These scenarios describe how the concepts within US Patent 9246857 could be combined with existing open-source standards, rendering future similar inventions obvious.

1. XMPP (Extensible Messaging and Presence Protocol) with Conversation Correlation

Scenario: An XMPP client (e.g., Gajim, Pidgin using the mod_mam for Message Archive Management or a custom extension for conversation threading) is enhanced to incorporate the active conversation selection and visual feedback mechanism.
Enabling Description: An XMPP-compliant messaging client is implemented where a user's MUC (Multi-User Chat) or 1-to-1 chat window serves as the "discussion interface." Messages are standard XMPP <message> stanzas. A new XMPP extension (XEP) is proposed, e.g., XEP-0XXX: Conversation Context Indicators. When a user taps or clicks on a received XMPP message stanza in the client's GUI (the "first indication"), the client's local software interprets this as defining an "active conversation." The client then locally modifies the styling of the message input box (the "message entry location") by changing its CSS background-color or adding a specific border-image to match a predefined visual cue (e.g., a specific hex color code) associated with that conversation's thread ID. Subsequent messages composed in this input box are sent with an XMPP <thread> element whose id attribute matches the active conversation's thread ID, and the client displays these outgoing messages with the same visual cue. The client also supports receiving incoming messages with this <thread> ID and applies the corresponding visual cue.
Combination: US9246857 (active conversation + message entry location visual cue) + XMPP (protocol for messaging and presence).

2. IRC (Internet Relay Chat) with Dynamic Channel Context Cues

Scenario: An IRC client (e.g., WeeChat, HexChat) is modified to visually correlate sub-conversations within a busy IRC channel by dynamically adjusting the message input line's appearance.
Enabling Description: An IRC client application is developed with a graphical user interface displaying an IRC channel log as the "discussion interface" and a standard command line for sending messages as the "message entry location." Due to the rapid, multi-topic nature of IRC, explicit conversation correlation is valuable. When a user highlights or clicks on a specific line in the channel log (representing a message that is part of a sub-topic or "active conversation"), the client software triggers a local action. The input element or textarea of the message entry location is dynamically updated using a curses or Qt library call (depending on client architecture) to change its foreground or background color to a specific "first visual cue" (e.g., a specific ANSI escape code for terminal-based clients, or an RGB color for GUI clients). This color is also appended as a metadata tag (e.g., [RedTopic]) to the message before it's sent via the IRC PRIVMSG command, allowing other compatible clients to interpret and display the correlated message and potentially update their own input line. The client uses a hash of the selected message content or a unique identifier (if supported by a custom IRCd extension) to derive the conversation ID.
Combination: US9246857 (active conversation + message entry location visual cue) + IRC (protocol for real-time text conferencing).

3. Matrix Protocol with End-to-End Encrypted Conversation Threads and UI Hints

Scenario: A Matrix client (e.g., Element, Cinny) is enhanced to use end-to-end encrypted signals to define and visually represent active conversation threads, including modifications to the message composer based on the chosen thread.
Enabling Description: A Matrix-compliant client application (e.g., Element Web) is extended to implement the method. The "discussion interface" is a Matrix room timeline, displaying events (messages). The "message entry location" is the rich text editor/composer. When a user long-presses or right-clicks on a Matrix event (a message) and selects a "Reply in Thread" option (the "first indication"), the client defines the existing m.thread ID of that message (or generates a new one if it's the start of a new thread) as the "active conversation." The client then modifies a visual element of the message entry location by injecting dynamic CSS (e.g., border-color, box-shadow) to match a visual cue (e.g., a specific color from the client's theme palette) associated with that m.thread ID. When the user composes a "first new message" in this visually modified composer, the client automatically adds the m.in_reply_to and m.thread relations to the outgoing event, and ensures the displayed message (both locally and on receiving clients supporting the feature) incorporates the visual cue, maintaining end-to-end encryption for both content and conversation context metadata. User preferences for visual cues are stored in a secure client-side database (e.g., IndexedDB) and optionally synchronized via encrypted account_data events.
Combination: US9246857 (active conversation + message entry location visual cue) + Matrix Protocol (decentralized, end-to-end encrypted communication standard) + m.thread relation (standardized threading mechanism in Matrix).